Vance Joseph Explains Broncos' Dramatic Interception Turnaround

The Denver Broncos have made a dramatic improvement in forcing interceptions this season, and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has offered some insight into the turnaround.

Denver has recorded seven interceptions through six games, compared with just one at the same point last season. That improvement has helped the Broncos overcome their ongoing offensive struggles and enter Sunday's road game against the Arizona Cardinals with a 4-2 record.

According to NFL.com's defensive statistics, Denver is tied with Jacksonville and Seattle for second in the league in interceptions, trailing only the Green Bay Packers, who have nine.

The Broncos have benefited from disguised coverages, pressure on opposing quarterbacks and defensive backs capitalizing on their opportunities.

Those elements were particularly evident in Denver's 17-14 overtime victory against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 6.

The Broncos intercepted Sam Darnold twice, including a game-changing takeaway by Ja'Quan McMillian in overtime that set up Wil Lutz's winning 53-yard field goal.

Joseph subsequently explained how Denver disguised its coverage to fool Darnold on the decisive play.

"It was a Cover 2 trap; we showed him a single high, and rolled to a Cover 2 on the snap," Joseph told Emmanuel Acho after the game.

Denver had spent much of the contest using coverage designed to limit Seattle receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. But when the Seahawks began adjusting their passing attack, Joseph changed the defensive look.

By initially showing a single-high safety alignment before shifting into Cover 2, the Broncos gave Darnold a misleading picture of the coverage.

McMillian read the play and stepped in front of a pass intended for Rashid Shaheed, giving Denver possession in Seattle territory.

The pass rush also played a significant role. Denver sacked Darnold five times and registered 17 quarterback hits, making it difficult for him to operate comfortably.

The improvement is particularly encouraging because Denver has generated takeaways despite injuries throughout its secondary.

McMillian has emerged as an important playmaker, strengthening the argument that he deserves a contract extension.

For a Broncos team still searching for consistency on offense, the ability to create turnovers has become increasingly important.

Joseph's challenge now is maintaining that production when Denver faces Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett and Arizona's passing attack Sunday.